What happened on October 17th?

Mother Teresa wins global recognition for compassionate service

Author

Matthew Jones
October 17, 2024

1979 Mother Teresa Received the Nobel Peace Prize

On October 17, 1979, Mother Teresa was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her tireless efforts to help the poor, sick, and dying, particularly in Kolkata, India. Her humanitarian work and dedication to serving the most vulnerable earned her international recognition and respect.

This photo shows President Ronald Reagan presenting Mother Teresa with the Medal of Freedom at a White House Ceremony in the Rose Garden, on June 20, 1985.

🗞️Today’s Headlines

Everything important that’s ever happened on October 17:

2018 ─ Canada became the first major industrialized nation to legalize the sale and use of recreational marijuana, setting a landmark precedent in drug policy reform.

2005 ─ The Colbert Report debuted on Comedy Central, offering a satirical take on news and politics and becoming a cultural phenomenon on TV.

1939 ─ Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, a landmark American film on political idealism, had its world premiere, highlighting the fight against political corruption.

1854 ─ British and French troops commenced the Siege of Sevastopol. This was a significant engagement in the Crimean War.

1777 ─ British General John Burgoyne surrendered at the Second Battle of Saratoga, a decisive moment in the American Revolutionary War.

1448 ─ The second Battle of Kosovo began in Serbia, where the Hungarian-Walachian army faced a crushing defeat against the Ottomans. This was an important struggle in the Balkans.

🎂 Today’s Birthdays

On October 17, we’re singing to:

Eminem (1972) ─ American rapper and songwriter acclaimed for his rapid-fire lyrics and influence on the hip-hop genre.

Rita Hayworth (1918) ─ Iconic American actress and dancer known for her roles in classic films and her status as a Hollywood legend.

Arthur Miller (1915) ─ Renowned American playwright best known for works like Death of a Salesman and The Crucible, exploring themes of social responsibility and human nature.

 🪦Who Died Today?

On October 17, we’re saying goodbye to:

Frédéric Chopin (1849) ─ Celebrated Polish-French composer and pianist, whose works, especially for the piano, remain deeply influential in classical music.

Puyi (1967) ─ The last emperor of China's Qing dynasty, during whose life the fall of imperial China happened. He later adapted to life as an ordinary citizen.

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